Human Rights Watch reports that Rwanda’s army and the M23 militia have shelled camps for displaced people in eastern Congo, killing residents and committing violence, while exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Congo alleges Rwanda’s military involvement, leading to increased calls for sanctions against Rwanda.
Rwanda’s army, in conjunction with a militia it supports, has been accused of shelling camps for displaced individuals in eastern Congo, according to a report from Human Rights Watch. This report, published on Thursday, outlines that since the start of the year, the Rwandan military and the M23 rebel group have carried out indiscriminate shelling of these camps, where tens of thousands of civilians are seeking refuge. The report further emphasizes that the Congolese army has exacerbated the situation by deploying artillery within close proximity to these camps, rendering displaced individuals even more vulnerable. It details that both parties have been implicated in the killing of camp residents, committing sexual violence, and obstructing the delivery of humanitarian aid. The eastern region of Congo is characterized by enduring violence, with over 120 armed groups vying for control over land and mineral resources, leading to rampant human rights abuses, including mass killings and widespread sexual assault. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the displacement of approximately 6 million individuals in the area. The M23 Movement, predominantly consisting of ethnic Tutsis, originated from a faction that separated from the Congolese army over a decade ago. In 2012, they executed a significant offensive, briefly seizing the provincial capital of Goma, located near the Rwandan border, and they now threaten a repeat of this occupation. Congo has accused Rwandan forces of direct involvement in warfare and violations of human rights in the region. Furthermore, U.S. and U.N. experts have claimed that Rwanda is providing military support to the M23 group, a charge Rwanda has consistently denied. However, in February, the Rwandan government confirmed the presence of its troops and missile systems in eastern Congo, citing concerns over a buildup of Congolese military forces along the shared border. Recent estimates from July indicated that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan troops are actively deployed in eastern Congo, collaborating with the M23 militia, which has continued to gain territorial advances.
The complex conflict in eastern Congo has its roots in multifaceted historical, ethnic, and socioeconomic factors. With a high number of armed factions competing for control, the area has experienced significant unrest and humanitarian crises. The M23 group, which is historically linked to Rwanda, has been a persistent source of tension, often leading to allegations of Rwanda’s interference in Congolese affairs. This cycle of violence and military engagement has led to widespread human suffering and displacement, prompting investigations and accusations from various human rights organizations.
In summary, the situation in eastern Congo remains dire as both the Rwandan military and the M23 militia are accused of shelling civilian displacement camps, exacerbating violence and humanitarian crises in the area. The Congolese army’s actions have reportedly worsened the plight of displaced individuals, with significant human rights violations continuing within this volatile region. As international scrutiny increases, the calls for sanctions against Rwanda signal a looming diplomatic confrontation stemming from these serious allegations.
Original Source: apnews.com
